Dinosaur National Monument

Dinosaur National Monument on the border between Colorado and Utah at the confluence of the Green and Yampa Rivers known for the Yampa River Canyon, its sandstone cliffs and the area’s preserved fossils.

Location: Dinosaur National Monument straddles the border between northeastern Utah and northwestern Colorado. The monument is accessible via U.S. Highway 40 in Colorado and Utah Highway 149 in Utah.

Establishment: President Woodrow Wilson designated Dinosaur National Monument on October 4, 1915, to protect the Carnegie Dinosaur Quarry. The monument was expanded in 1938 to include the scenic canyons of the Green and Yampa rivers.

Protection: The primary reason for the monument’s protection is to preserve its significant paleontological resources. The area is home to over 800 paleontological sites, including fossils of dinosaurs such as Allosaurus, Deinonychus, and Abydosaurus. The monument also protects the natural beauty and cultural history of the region, including petroglyphs and homesteads.

Things to Do:

Visit the Quarry Exhibit Hall: See over 1,500 dinosaur fossils still embedded in the cliff face. The Quarry Visitor Center offers exhibits and information about the fossils and the history of the monument.
Explore the Fossil Discovery Trail: A short, accessible trail that showcases a variety of fossils and offers a glimpse into the prehistoric world.
Hike the Harpers Corner Road: Enjoy dramatic views of the surrounding canyons and mountains. The road ends at an overlook with stunning vistas.
Rafting on the Green and Yampa Rivers: Experience the monument’s remote canyons and wilderness by rafting on these scenic rivers.
Camping: Choose from several campgrounds within the monument for a night under the stars.
View Petroglyphs: Discover ancient rock art created by Indigenous peoples at sites like McKee Springs.
Stargaze: Dinosaur National Monument is designated as an International Dark Sky Park, making it an excellent spot for stargazing.